Natural gas is an important and growing part of our nation’s energy portfolio. It emits less greenhouse gases than coal when combusted and avoids mercury and other dangerous air pollutants that come from coal. It could be a win-win, if--and this is a big ‘if’--we do it the right way. The “right way” entails putting tough rules in place that lock in mandatory environmental safeguards to protect communities and reduce methane pollution, which undermines natural gas’ role as a lower carbon alternative to coal and oil. EDF is taking a leading role to ensure that natural gas provides real and sustained carbon benefits without harming the environment or health of the communities where gas development occurs.
Overall Function
Under the direction of the Chief Counsel, Energy Program, the Attorney will be responsible for providing legal and policy expertise to various state field campaigns as they related to federal and state natural gas regulations.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Preparing detailed legal and policy comments in response to proposed regulations and legislation. This position may also involve preparing a range of litigation documents including complaints, briefs and motions.
- Developing reports and whitepapers to influence decision-makers and engage in public education and outreach.
- Effective advocacy before federal and state policy-makers and regulators.
- Ability to negotiate and engage with business and industry representatives to achieve critical gains.
- Building and participating on coalitions and collaborations.
- Communicating with internal communications staff (web, media, and marketing) to help EDF advance important natural gas and climate issues.
- Advocating national and regional and local policies to secure cleaner, healthier air.
- Professionally representing EDF at various important internal and external events.
- Respond to emerging organizational priorities.
Qualifications
- Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school.
- Regulatory or corporate environmental management experience preferred.
- Five years of experience in a similar position or carrying out similar work will affect classification of position, whether Staff Attorney or Senior Attorney. Depending on the level, this position may supervise other attorneys.
- Excellent legal research, analytical, writing and advocacy skills.
- Demonstrated advocacy skills, experience working within coalitions, and public speaking.
- Sophisticated understanding of energy law and regulation, implementing regulations, and administrative law. Natural gas industry-specific knowledge is preferred.
- Ability to work with senior government and private sector officials.
- Ability to establish and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external allies.
- Results-oriented, self-starter with the ability to think strategically and work on fast-paced, dynamic issues. Ability to recognize and build on political opportunities for progress.
- Ability to work both independently and as a leader or member of teams in a dynamic and creative environment with colleagues and partners of varied backgrounds and experience. Able to prioritize and be flexible.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Department/ Location
Austin, TX; New York City or Washington, DC preferred, but flexible in choice of location
Start date
This position will begin as soon as possible.
Due to the volume of employment applications and queries received, EDF is unable to respond to each application individually. Applicants will be contacted directly if selected as a candidate.
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